CHESTER MP Christine Russell has spoken of her 'heavy heart' upon hearing the news the historic city centre Odeon cinema will close its doors for good on June 14.

The news this week that the much- loved Northgate Street cinema will close in three weeks shocked employees, who were handed three-week notices on Tuesday.

Mrs Russell had helped lead a campaign to save the Odeon when it was bought out by The Brook Group, which wants to re-develop it as a restaurant, pub and leisure f acility.

She said: 'I just think it is devastating news. It is a cherished landmark in Chester which is evident from the number of names on the petition we started last year.

'It is going to be very difficult for them to get planning permission for the site - they will have a fight on their hands.

'It is a perfect example of a 1930s Art Deco building which is listed both inside and out. It is going to be tough for them to carry out their ambitious plans.'

Chester City Council had been in talks with The Brook Group to buy the building and turn it into an arts complex.

But Labour councillor Bob Rudd said: 'It is my belief when the city council approached Brook, they asked for a ridiculous amount of money for the building.

'I think The Brook Group is trying to apply pressure to see if they can get the council to stump up the cash by giving a date for closure.

'If the group got planning permission for the building they would be able to sell it on at a much higher price - they know this and I think this is what stands between the council and a lower price.

'I will be encouraging everyone to write to the planning board against the plans once they go to the planning committee which may be as soon as June.'

Arthouse cinema company City Screen, which specialises in foreign language and mainstream films, has indicated it would be interested in talking to the council if the authority was able to buy the building.

Cllr Rudd added: 'It will be interesting to see what the new administration do. There may be hope yet.'